How to Experience the Annular Solar Eclipse in Oregon

Book your plans now to experience this special 'Ring of Fire' event on Oct. 14, 2023.
April 27, 2023 (Updated October 2, 2023)

If you live in Oregon or visited six years ago, you’ll probably remember where you were during the total solar eclipse of Aug. 21, 2017.

Many of us traveled to be in the “path of totality,” grabbed our protective eclipse glasses and brought a picnic to enjoy our viewing as a moment we, and our kids, could look back to as one of those times in the history of the Earth you just don’t forget.

Another astronomical event is on the horizon, this time an “annular solar eclipse” that will also be visible within a certain path that stretches throughout four regions of Oregon: parts of the Coast and the Willamette Valley, a tiny bit of Central Oregon and much of Southern Oregon.

“We’ll see the silhouette of the moon; a lot of people are amazed how the moon can cover the sun,” says Jim Todd, director of space education at OMSI in Portland. “The experience is awe-inspiring, beautiful, amazing, and right here in our own backyard — hopefully it will be clear.” While Todd is a lifelong educator, scientist and eclipse-chaser as well as president of the Rose City Astronomers, the eclipse is an event he encourages everyone to experience.

How can you see the eclipse? Why is it special? What else can you do on your trip? Here’s everything you need to know.

How is this different from the 2017 eclipse?

In 2017 the disc of the moon was bigger than the sun. That’s what created totality for 2 minutes. In October 2023 the disc of the moon will be smaller than the disc of the sun by about 6%, and people will be able to see the Ring of Fire for a full 4 minutes in the path of totality. The sky will get dark but not fully as dark as in 2017. Animals will get quieter and you’ll be able to see shadows of trees and other landscape elements.

map of Oregon with shaded path showing eclipse path

Why is it called the Ring of Fire and what does ‘annular’ mean?

If you’re within the path of annular solar eclipse, you’ll get to see sun appear as a thin ring, almost but not completely eclipsed by the moon. Annularity happens when the moon is at its furthest point from the Earth and passes between the Earth and the sun. The moon essentially appears smaller than the sun, causing the visible ring of light around it.

How do I view the eclipse safely?

Wherever you are, make sure to protect your eyes while viewing with eclipse glasses and follow these tips on how to view a solar eclipse safely. Eclipse glasses are available for purchase at the OMSI Science Store, or stop by a Travel Oregon Welcome Center between Oct. 1 and Oct. 14 to pick up a free pair (while supplies last).

During the annular phase, the sun shines brightly enough to damage your eyes if you view it without a protective filter. Use only an approved solar filter that blocks dangerous ultraviolet and infrared radiation as well as visible light.

Where can I best view the eclipse?

The 2023 annular solar eclipse will be visible from Oregon to Texas, starting in Oregon shortly after 8 a.m. October 14, 2023 — with a partial eclipse before reaching annularity a little after 9 a.m. Visitors on the Oregon Coast will be the first in the U.S. to see it before it moves on a southeastward path across Oregon through Albany, Eugene, Springfield, Crater Lake National Park, Roseburg, Medford and Lakeview before continuing southeast. The eclipse will reach maximum coverage at 9:18 a.m. over the Eugene area, producing near-total darkness. The moon will then begin to clear the sun, completely restoring daylight at about 10:39 a.m.

Check out OMSI’s interactive map to click on any location and see eclipse animations, local times, and average cloud cover for conditions in your location.

What if I can’t view the eclipse in person?

OMSI will be broadcasting the annular eclipse live online. Check out their broadcast schedule and you can join in the global experience wherever you are. OMSI will also hold a viewing party on Oct. 14 for anyone in Portland who may want to see a partial view of the Ring of Fire.

 

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bright orange sky with thin white circular ring
The "ring of fire" eclipse will be visible for 4 minutes in the path of annularity. Pick up a pair of free eclipse-viewing glasses at a Travel Oregon Welcome Center between Oct. 1 and Oct. 14. Photo credit: Lee T. / Alamy Stock Photo

What eclipse-viewing events can I attend?

Choose from a variety of events across the state for a stellar experience.

Southern Oregon

  • EclipseFest23, Chiloquin (Oct. 12-15, 2023): This specially curated immersive experience is in the direct path of the annular eclipse, between Crater Lake and Klamath Falls. Viewers will enjoy one of the longest viewing times, at over 4 minutes. The experience includes five days of camping; three days of food and drink vendors and artisans; family activities like bingo, a pie- and donut-eating contest, orchestrated stargazing, karaoke, dancing, outdoor activities and a live concert by ’90s rock band Smash Mouth. Purchase tickets here.
  • The Great Western Warner Mountain Annular Eclipse event, Lakeview (Oct. 13-14, 2023): Join local U.S. Forest Service partners and dark-sky advocates in Southern Oregon’s Fremont-Winema National Forest for this two-day event. Attendees can enjoy dark-sky information booths and educational crafts along with an after-eclipse celebration at the top of Warner Canyon Ski Hill. The ski area will offer rides to the top via chairlift for a $10 fee. Students from the University of Idaho will also be doing a NASA grant research project on site, launching a helium balloon carrying equipment to monitor the effect of the eclipse on the atmosphere. Book an RV site or tent site for the event early, as space is limited. Be aware of local fire restrictions and consider wearing brightly colored clothing since it is mule deer hunting season. Also do not block roadways, and pack out what you pack in to the forest.
  • Solar Eclipse Tour with Wanderlust Tours, Crater Lake National Park (Oct. 14, 2023): Secure a spot with this Bend-based outfitter to enjoy including naturalist-guided hikes and interpretation of the eclipse, transportation to and from Bend, lunch and snacks and eclipse-viewing glasses.
  • Eclipse Into Nature, Klamath Falls (Oct. 13-14, 2023): Join this free two-day watch party and educational event (pay for parking only) at Running Y Resort, which has teamed up with OMSI, Oregon Institute of Technology and members of the Klamath Tribes. Secure your space early and enjoy food, music, games and presentations on the day of the eclipse. On the day of the eclipse, a public watch party at the resort will include food, music, games and presentations.

Oregon Coast

  • Solar Eclipse Breakfast, Depoe Bay (Oct. 14, 2023): Head to the whale-watching capital of the Coast to see the eclipse and do good at the same time. The Marine Corps Toys for Tots is holding a fundraiser set for 8-11 a.m. at the Fishing Rock Eatery & Lounge. Tickets include eggs Benedict, corned beef hash and toast plus one mimosa or juice, as well as viewing glasses, a raffle and eclipse-watching. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 day-of.
  • Dark Days Solar Eclipse Music Festival, Yachats (Oct. 13-14, 2023): Music lovers will want plan to stay in the artsy town of Yachats for two days of live music to round out your eclipse viewing. Passes are available for just Friday (six bands, $25), just Saturday (13 bands, $35) or the full weekend ($50). The party happens at the Yachats Commons.
  • Circles in the Sand, Florence (Oct. 14, 2023): Watch in awe as expert sand artist Denny Dyke creates mesmerizing labyrinth designs on the beach at this free event, open to all. Walk along the sandy labyrinth with loved ones and enjoy the time by the sea. This event is set for 3-9 p.m. at Driftwood Shores (sand art starts at 3 p.m.; walk-through starts at 5 p.m.). Parking is limited so carpooling is encouraged.
  • Eclipse Viewing Family Fun Festival, Reedsport (Oct. 13-14, 2023): Kick off your eclipse weekend with artisans and makers lining the sidewalks of Old Town Reedsport from 5-8 p.m. Friday evening. Join Two-Shy Brewery for live music Friday and Saturday. Saturday morning, all are welcome to the Rainbow Plaza 7 a.m.-noon for vendors, music and family activities including a free Sugar Shack donut for the first 50 people. Grab free eclipse glasses at the Umpqua Discovery Center. Stay in town to shop, hike or hang out by the water after the eclipse.
  • Ring of Fire Revelry Eclipse Block Party, North Bend (Oct. 14, 2023): This coastal community is hosting a day of live music, face painting, chainsaw carving, dancing, prizes and 20+ food and drink truck vendors. Free eclipse glasses are available while supplies last. The fun is set for 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at North Bend City Hall.
  • Eclipse Party at Shore Acres State Park, Coos Bay (Oct. 14, 2023): Join rangers and astronomy educators from around the state who will have telescopes set up to look at the sun and sunspots. The event starts at 8 a.m. near the park’s Observation Building (eclipse begins at 8:04, maximum is at 9:18, ends at 10:38). While the event is free, parking is $5 for day use; you may also park at the Sunset Bay day-use area and hike in. Carpooling is recommended.
  • Eclipse Viewing Party, Coos Bay (Oct. 14, 2023): Bring the family to the Coos History Museum on the bayfront between 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. for free STEM activities, eclipse viewing and an exclusive look at this historic museum’s Apollo 14 collection. Refreshments and space-themed gifts for sale, plus extended museum hours.
  • Festival of Light Watch Party, Bandon (Oct. 14, 2023): Bring your blanket and chairs to Bullards Beach, just north of the Coquille River Lighthouse, just before the partial eclipse begins at 8:05 a.m. Oregon State Parks will have a limited amount of eclipse glasses. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the sea stacks off the coastline. Or watch the event in Bandon at the South Jetty and spend the day in Old Town Bandon.
  • Walk for the Wild, Bandon (Oct. 13-14, 2023): Join in the national “Walk for the Wild” challenge to move at least 5k in nature while raising funds to support the wildlife refuges of Bandon Marsh and the offshore Oregon Islands. The kickoff party is set for 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Bandon Brewery, with pizza, beer and a silent auction with prizes from local businesses. The walk happens Saturday 8:30 a.m.-noon at the Bandon Marsh Wildlife Refuge, including an eclipse-viewing party with free eclipse glasses. Attendees can also walk with a South Slough National Estuary bird or walk along the Myrtlewood Trail with a refuge. Donations are welcome.

Central Oregon

  • Beery House Eclipse Campout, La Pine (Oct. 13-15, 2023): Come for a weekend of fun with live music from several bands Friday night and all day Saturday. The eclipse will be visible here at 9:13 a.m.; eclipse glasses will be provided. Purchase tickets by suggested donation (youth 16 and under free) and reserve a campsite here or at nearby nearby La Pine State Park or Rosland Campground. Tickets include a shared meal Saturday night including a Beery House soup and potluck items.
  • Sunriver Observatory Watch Party, Sunriver (Oct. 14, 2023):  Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to guide attendees through the viewing between 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., as well as to discuss solar events like sunspots, solar flares and prominences. Tickets are $15 per person; eclipse glasses are included.

Willamette Valley

  • Eclipse-Viewing Breakfast, Veneta (Oct. 14, 2023): Book your seat now to join in for a full breakfast at the Emporium, a community arts collective in Veneta, including hot chocolate, coffee and mimosas (21+); eclipse glasses and live music for three hours during eclipse-viewing time.
Three rows of eclipse-viewing glasses with Travel Oregon logo in center
Stop by a Travel Oregon Welcome Center before Oct. 14 to pick up a free pair of certified eclipse-viewing glasses while supplies last.

Where in Southern and Central Oregon can I view the eclipse?

Southern and Central Oregon, with their vast, wide-open landscapes and little light pollution from city lights, are ideal for stargazing as well as eclipse viewing. In fact, much of Southern Oregon comprises the majority of the largest and most pristine dark-sky zone in the contiguous United States. Much of the action will be happening in the area around Crater Lake National Park and Klamath Falls, 40 miles south.

While visiting this area, be respectful and do not trespass. Be aware of property boundaries. Stay on public land, be kind to local communities and wildlife and don’t tread on sensitive habitats.  

Klamath Falls is a hot spot for birding, plentiful lodging and dining options and a flourishing downtown. Around Crater Lake there are many options for camping and lodging nearby. Outside of Crater Lake, spend some time getting to know Chiloquin, which offers legendary fly fishing, a family-favorite train museum, tons of local history and camping at Collier Memorial State Park.

East of Klamath County, the skies around Lakeview are among the most pristine, and Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is an ideal spot to visit, with views of the Warner Valley. Primitive camping is available at the Hot Springs Campground. Nearby Lakeview also offers lodging. Summer Lake Wildlife Area is another choice spot for outstanding birding, and there are many options for camping and lodging. While you’re in the area don’t miss trips to the small towns of Silver Lake, Paisley and Plush.

Alternatively, you can make your basecamp in a larger Southern Oregon city like Roseburg or Medford (and fly into the Rogue Valley International Airport). Both are chock full of lodging options for all budgets, as well as lively downtowns with shops, restaurants and easy access to trails and parks for families. This is also the heart of the world-famous Rogue Valley Wine Country, with tasting rooms galore, both within the city and in rural areas with views, alpaca ranches and other countryside charms.

Looking for some great eats? Find the best local food and drink stops along the self-guided Rogue Valley Food Trail (Jacksonville, Medford, Grants Pass, Central Point, Ashland and nearby communities) and Great Umpqua Food Trail (Roseburg, Canyonville, Elkton, Reedsport and nearby communities). Both trails are perfect blueprints for any road trip through Southern Oregon, including great spots to spend an afternoon wine-tasting, visiting a farm store or lavender farm.

In Central Oregon (north of Crater Lake), Sunriver and La Pine are two communities in the direct path of the annular eclipse. Popular destinations like Sunriver Resort and camping at LaPine State Park will book fast. Head south and east, further into the direct path of the annular eclipse, for more lodging options and off-the-beaten-path adventures in smaller communities of the Oregon Outback.

rippled sand with ocean and bluff in background
The Oregon Coast is the first U.S. viewpoint for the annular eclipse in October 2023.

Where on the Oregon Coast can I view the eclipse?

Much of Oregon’s Central Coast and South Coast are in the direct path of the annular eclipse — from Lincoln City south to Langlois, with the first landfall at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area at 9:15 a.m. It’s best to book your lodging as soon as possible, and check the forecast as your trip gets closer since the coastal range may see more cloud cover in October.  Eclipse-viewing glasses are available for purchase from the Oregon Coast Visitors Association.

Ready to plan your trip? On the Central Coast, the path starts just south of Lincoln City at Gleneden Beach — home to the flat, sandy beaches of Gleneden Beach State Recreation Site and the iconic Salishan Coastal Lodge. The coastline here, with a dramatic view of Cascade Head, is popular with surfers, seals and sea lions — make sure to keep your distance. Heading south, Depoe Bay and Newport are also some of the state’s most famous surfing and whale-watching spots. Excellent lodging along this stretch includes Channel House, SCP Depoe Bay, Inn at Nye Beach and more. Don’t miss Oregon State Parks’ Whale Watching Center and chance to eat at Local Ocean Seafoods and other spots along the Central Coast Food Trail.

Head further south to Seal Rock, Waldport, Yachats and Florence, where the rugged, small-town coastal vibes continue. From Waldport it’s easy to access the trails of the Siuslaw National Forest and catch a striking image of the Alsea Bay Bridge. Stay at Alsi Resort on the bay or camp at Beachside State Recreation Site. Yachats is a vibrant little town known for its art galleries, visitor-friendly shops and hiking trails. Book a luxury room at the Overleaf Lodge or a campsite at one of several campgrounds like Tillicum Beach Campground. Don’t miss dining at Yachats Brewing for top brewpub fare, Ona Restaurant & Lounge for fine dining and Luna Sea Fish House for fresh, local favorites.

Continue your journey south along the Coast to Reedsport, Winchester Bay and Lakeside — all extremely quiet, off-the-beaten path communities full of local charm as well as the world-famous home of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. You can sandboard, hike, paddle, ride an ATV, picnic, go birding or just marvel at the geology of this dramatic landscape formed by wind, water and time. Secure a campsite at William M. Tugman State Park and make sure to visit the Umpqua River Lighthouse.

The southernmost stretch of Oregon coastline in the direct path of the eclipse includes the sister cities of North Bend, Coos Bay and Charleston — nicknamed Oregon’s Adventure Coast. A great place to stay is The Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park, owned by the Coquille Indian Tribe. You’ll find bay-front rooms, an assortment of dining options, Vegas-style slot machines and other on-site entertainment. There’s no shortage of other lodging options as well. A vibrant downtown hosts a giant farmers market, art museum and history museum along with shops and bay-front eateries. The area is best known for its crown jewel, Shore Acres State Park — a great place to hike, picnic, visit the formal garden and storm-watch from designated viewpoints during high swells in the winter. Find camping at nearby Sunset Bay State Park.

About 20 miles south of Coos Bay is the lively town of Bandon, best known for epic sea stack views at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, world-class golfing at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort and destination-worthy cheese and ice cream at Face Rock Creamery. You’ll find many lodging options, including Bandon Inn, Inn at Face Rock and camping at Bullards Beach State Park.

To continue your Oregon coastal journey you can head south to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, between Gold Beach and Brookings. While it’s outside of the direct path of the annular eclipse it’s among some of the most scenic views you’ll find anywhere on the planet.

Where in the Willamette Valley can I view the eclipse?

Parts of the Mid-Willamette Valley and South Willamette Valley are in the direct path of the annular eclipse, which is great news for lovers of food, farm and wine experiences along the Mid-Willamette Valley Food Trail and South Willamette Valley Food Trail.

Know that Oregon State University in Corvallis is scheduled to play a home game on Oct. 14, so lodging will fill up fast and you can expect more crowds around town. A good bet for lodging is the Best Western Premier Boulder Falls Inn and Japanese Gardens in the nearby community of Lebanon, located minutes off Interstate-5. The hotel is steps from a lush one-acre Japanese garden featuring multiple waterfalls, walking paths, copper-roofed gazebos and koi pond.

In Corvallis, immerse yourself in nature at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge just south of town or book a campsite at nearby Alsea Falls Recreation Site. In Eugene, hit the trail at Mount Pisgah Arboretum and book an RV campsite at Armitage Park Campground. Consider flying into the Eugene Airport. Sample the culinary bounty of the Willamette Valley along the Corvallis Beer Trail or Eugene Ale Trail, both of which will take you into the surrounding communities of Springfield, Brownsville and Cottage Grove.

Outdoor adventurers will also love spending time in the hot spots of Oakridge and the McKenzie River area. You can take a waterfall hike at Salt Creek Falls, book a guided fishing trip or go mountain biking on a world-famous trail, then retreat to a cozy room at Westfir Lodge & Mountain Market, a hub for outdoor recreation. Oakridge has been recognized as a gold-level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Associations, one of just cities in the world to receive such a designation.

This region is also known for its unique farm-stay experiences. Look into booking a stay for a one-of-a-kind Oregon experience. Wherever you go in the Willamette Valley, enjoy responsibly indulging in the world-famous wine scene but consider taking a guided tour for the most hassle-free experience.

 

night sky with stars and milky way over building
Southern Oregon is home to one of Oregon's largest dark-sky areas. After a day of eclipse viewing make sure to stay and stargaze in the night skies. Photo courtesy of Joey Hamilton

What else can I do during my eclipse-watching road trip?

  • Take a self-guided tour of nearby Oregon Food Trails for meals, snacks, gifts and farm-based experiences.
  • The annular eclipse will be followed by a new moon, which makes for exceptional stargazing. Spend the evenings under the night sky at one of Oregon’s pristine dark-sky areas. (Read up for inspiration and tips for visiting.)
  • Book a guided tour with one of Oregon’s expert local guides, from cycling to fishing, rafting to wine tasting and more.

What are some tips for the best eclipse-watching experience?

Be respectful:

  • Don’t trespass. Be aware of property boundaries. Stay on public land, be kind to local communities and wildlife and don’t tread on sensitive habitats.
  • Put trash where it belongs; clean up after pets and leave places better than you found them.

Be safe:

  • Always wear your certified eclipse glasses for viewing.
  • Know that cell reception in many parts of Oregon is spotty; download maps ahead of time.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks for long drives.
  • Keep pets at home since they may scare.

Be smart:

  • Book lodging and campgrounds early, since they will likely sell out ahead of time.
  • Avoid highways and other popular attractions in the path of the eclipse if you want to avoid crowds.
  • Instead of trying to capture images of the eclipse, capture shots of your family and of shadows and trees that may look different during the event.
  • Check out viewing parties at many of Oregon’s wineries and campgrounds.
  • Find free travel-planning resources and helpful, friendly staff at Oregon’s eight Welcome Centers.

Where can I learn more about the annular eclipse?

Here are recommended links by Jim Todd at OMSI:

 

About The
Author

Jen Anderson
Jen Anderson is a longtime journalist and travel writer/editor who is now Travel Oregon’s Content & Community Manager, helping to align content for visitors via social media, print and web. She’s called Oregon home for 25 years and loves finding the latest places to eat, drink and play around the state with her husband and two boys. Brewpubs, beaches and bike trails top the list.

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